RIVERSIDE, Calif., November 4, 2026 - Bourns today announced its Bourns^® MSF Series Four-Terminal Shunt Power Resistors, including the MSF-2 and MSF-2L models, for accurate current measurement in high-current power systems. The series combines a four-terminal Kelvin measurement design with a 5 W power rating and resistance values from 0.5 mΩ to 5 mΩ. Maximum current is 100 A at 0.5 mΩ, with lower current at higher resistance values to stay within the 5 W rating.
Current measurement in battery management, power conversion, motor control, welding, and industrial power equipment can be affected by the resistance of leads, conductors, and electrical connections. The MSF Series separates the load-current path from the voltage-measurement path through its four-terminal Kelvin configuration, minimizing measurement errors caused by lead resistance. A Manganin^® resistance element welded to oxygen-free high-conductivity copper terminals provides thermal stability, while a flame-resistant, high-temperature silicone coating protects the resistor. The series operates from -55 °C to +275 °C and provides a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of ±100 ppm/°C from 0 °C to +85 °C.
“Accurate current measurement becomes more difficult as system current increases because resistance in the conductors and connections can influence the sensed voltage. The MSF Series uses a four-terminal Kelvin configuration to separate the measurement path from the load-current path, supporting current measurement up to 100 A with resistance values as low as 0.5 mΩ.”
— Walter Garcia, Product Line Manager, Resistors, Bourns